Parikia Travel Guide

Parikia is the largest settlement in Paros, Greece. This comprehensive travel guide covers everything from places to visit in Parikia to where to stay, and what to buy.


Introduction to Parikia

Parikia is the largest town located on the Greek island of Paros. It is the primary port of entry for most visitors to the island and is known for its charming, narrow streets and whitewashed houses that are typical of the Cyclades. Parikia is a popular destination for tourists who want to experience beautiful beaches, ancient landmarks, traditional Greek charm and excellent food and drink.

List of Places to Visit in Parikia

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Parikia offers a rich history that is reflected in the various cultural landmarks located within its boundaries. Some of the must-visit places in Parikia include the 13th-century Venetian castle, the Church of Ekatontapiliani, which is known as the “Church of One Hundred Doors,” and the ancient ruins of the Temple of Athena.

Additionally, Parikia features several interesting museums, including the Archaeological Museum of Paros and the Byzantine Museum. The former displays various artifacts from the ancient and prehistoric periods of Paros while the latter houses Byzantine art and artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Parikia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Parikia is a nature lover’s paradise. It offers visitors breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and the mountainous landscapes that surround it. The island boasts of marvelous beaches, some of which are voted as the best in Greece. Parasporos, Marcello and Krios are some of the popular ones.

Naturally, Parikia is the home to a plethora of outdoor activities. One of the exciting activities to partake in is windsurfing in Pounda Beach. Pezoula, which is situated near the Kefalos Beach Resort, offers visitors a beautiful glimpse into the island’s natural beauty.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Parikia

Parikia also provides various hiking and biking trails that cover vast areas of the island. The best hiking spot is the Paros Antiparos Channel, which provides a scenic view of the islands of the Cyclades group. Another popular trail is the Byzantine Way which is suitable for intermediate hikers.

If you’re looking for something more challenging, you can try out the trail from Parikia to Lefkes. Nevertheless, biking is an excellent way to explore the area around Parikia, and it offers a more active and adventurous experience.

Best Things to Do in Parikia: Activities and Tours

Besides the natural surroundings, Parikia also offers various other activities such as the daily boat trip from Piso Livadi, which takes visitors to secluded beaches that are not easily accessible by land. Visitors can also go scuba-diving around the island of Paros or participate in traditional Greek night events.

Week-Long Itinerary for Parikia

For visitors looking at staying longer on the island, we recommend a week-long itinerary. Try to explore the Parian villages of Naoussa and Lefkes; both offer a glimpse into the traditional island lifestyle. Take one whole day to see the wonderful beaches near and far, and rent a car to reach and explore the villages on the island’s south part.

Food and Drink Scene of Parikia

If you travel to Parikia, experiencing the local culinary cuisine is a must. A range of seafood is offered in most of the local restaurants, including octopus, shrimp saganaki, and freshly caught fish. We recommend trying the famous Parian cheese; graviera, ksinotiri, and wine, such as Malvasia or Mavrodaphne.

Where to Stay in Parikia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Parikia offers an excellent choice of accommodation options, starting from luxury villas to budget-friendly hostels. Visitors who want the quintessential Greek Island experience should look into the local guesthouses or traditional villas as they offer the perfect way to explore the island’s lifestyle, staying close to the town center.

What to Buy in Parikia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When it comes to souvenirs, Parikia offers visitors ample opportunities to take a piece of the island ``home.” From jewelry, hand-made leather accessories, and traditional ceramics, the island has something for everybody. Without a doubt, visiting the local street markets near the town center is an excellent way to buy some mementos and meet the locals.

Local Culture and Customs of Parikia

The Greek island of Paros has a rich culture and history that is reflected in its various customs and traditions. Visitors are recommended to have a basic knowledge of these customs to make the most of their travel.

This includes the tradition of Filoxenia, which means generosity and hospitality towards the visitors. Visitors should also recognize the customary practice of removing shoes before entering a church or chapel, an essential respect for religion.

Best Time to Visit Parikia

The best time to travel to Parikia is between May and October, which is the peak tourist season and the perfect time to explore the lovely beaches and indulge in outdoor activities. While winter is less crowded and offers excellent deals to budget travelers, take note of the cold weather, which makes outdoor activities challenging.

Do’s and Don’ts of Parikia

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions
  • Explore the island’s natural beauty
  • Visit the ancient archaeological sites

Don’t:

  • Wear shoes in holy places like chapels and churches
  • Litter or leave your waste behind
  • Mistreat the local wildlife and environment

Safety and Health

Safety in Parikia

Parikia, like most of the Cyclades islands, is a relatively safe place for visitors. Nevertheless, visitors are advised to exercise caution, especially around crowded areas and at night. Always keep an eye on your belongings and conserve your travel documents when roaming in high visitor areas.

Health in Parikia

It is always vital to check for up to date health alerts when traveling to a foreign country. Visitors should stay hydrated, always use suns cream, and mosquito repellent in summer months and seek advice from a doctor before coming in for any specific ailments that could impact their trip.

Getting to Parikia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Parikia

The nearest major airports closest to Paros Island are located in Athens and Mykonos. Once in Athens, visitors can rent a car and drive south for about three hours to reach Piraeus’s port. The ferry ride from Piraeus to the Parikia port takes about four hours.

Bus Stations Near Parikia

Alternatively, visitors can use one of the three main bus stations located in Athens to reach Piraeus’s port, which is the main transfer hub for the ferry services. Boarding the bus journey takes around three hours, and then you can take the four-hour ferry ride to reach Parikia.

Other Options

If you are traveling from another island, you could take a ferry from nearby islands such as Mykonos, Naxos, or Santorini.

How to Get Around in Parikia

The best way to explore Parikia’s attractions is by renting a car or a scooter, making it easier and more comfortable for visitors to reach far-off places and explore the island. Additionally, visitors can opt for the public transportation system either through bus or taxi, which locally available.

Where to Go Next from Parikia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

For visitors who have already made their way to Parikia and want to explore more Cyclades islands, other popular destinations like Mykonos and Santorini offer plenty of attractions value the distance.

Conclusion

Parikia is an excellent destination, full of hidden opportunities to explore and experience the vibrant local lifestyle. It is the perfect place to spend a few days, recharge, soak up some culture, and indulge in the island’s natural beauty. With endless lists of activities, sights, and food to choose from, it is an essential stop on any Cyclades island itinerary or trip to Greece.

Panagia Ekatontapiliani church. Panagia Ekatontapiliani church.